Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Ahead of the planned takeover of the iconic Ojukwu Bunker and the National War Museum, Umuahia, the Abia State Government has approved a comprehensive renovation of both monuments.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, while briefing newsmen on the outcome of this week’s Executive Council meeting.
According to the Commissioner, the decision aims to transform the state’s cultural, historical, and creative landscape in line with Governor Alex Otti’s vision for the arts and creative economy.
“This follows the finalisation of agreements between the National Commission for Museums and Monuments and the State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy.
“The renovation and upgrade of the facilities will modernise the iconic heritage site, restore physical experience to the centre, and reposition the bunker as a leading tourist attraction in the state and the country,” Prince Kanu stated.
He added that the intervention underscores the state government’s unwavering commitment to preserving history while elevating Abia’s tourism potential, which will, in turn, create employment and business opportunities for residents.
The Commissioner also announced that the Abia State Government, through the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, has lined up several activities for this year’s Christmas season.
“A number of events have been scheduled to mark this year’s Christmas season, the first being a comedy fest slated for December 12, 2025, in Umuahia,” he said.
He noted that several home-grown talents, alongside other notable artistes, would feature at the fest. He also revealed that the Abia State Christmas Carol will hold on December 20, 2025, with all events designed to elevate the state’s festive atmosphere during the Yuletide.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr. Matthew Ekwuruibe, said the state is currently working closely with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments as well as the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy to finalise the Memorandum of Understanding.
He expressed confidence that the retrofitting of both facilities would begin soon, describing the move as a fulfilment of Governor Otti’s campaign promises.
“And this is one of the promises His Excellency made during his campaign and in his manifesto. Many of them are now coming to fruition.
“We are presenting the Abia Comedy Fest, which will feature homegrown comedians and musicians,” Ekwuruibe added.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, was also present at the briefing.
Ikengaonline reports that the National War Museum houses several war relics, including carcasses of fighter jets and armoured tanks used during the Nigeria–Biafra war of 1967–1970.
Both sites have long served as tourist attractions, but patronage has dwindled in recent years due to dilapidation and poor maintenance.
